Page 89 - Book8E

• Ask to see the preparer's credentials and find out how current his or her tax education is.
• If possible, talk to someone who has used the preparer previ- ously and see if the person was happy with the service.
• Keep in mind that tax evasion is a felony that can cost you five years in prison and as much as $250,000 in fines.
If you suspect that someone is attempting to get away with tax fraud, you can fill out Form 3949-A to report them to the IRS. The form asks for specific information about your suspicions and can be filled out anonymously if you prefer. You can have the form mailed to you by calling (800) 829-3676 to request it.
Can Anybody Help Me?
The IRS acknowledges that every citizen has the right to be treated fairly and respectfully when it comes to income taxes. You have the right to have your questions answered, and if you feel like the IRS employee on the other end of the telephone has not been courteous or professional, you have the right to report him or her to the employee's supervisor.
The Taxpayer Advocate Service
Supposing you have tried to get a problem taken care of with the IRS and not been able to, what then? That's where the Taxpayer Advocate Service comes in. This service is operated independently from the IRS and there is at least one Taxpayer Advocate in every state. The Advocate's job is to see that you have someone representing your interests when try- ing to solve issues with the IRS. The Taxpayer Advocate Service cannot, however, change legal judgments that have been made against you by the IRS. An Advocate is most helpful if you are dealing with:
• The possibility of significant financial hardship as a result of taxes owed
April or Not—It's Always Tax Time 79